People who are chronically ill or permanently disabled can receive free wheelchairs from Tasputra Perkim, a non-profit organization based in Taman U Thant, Kuala Lumpur. Tasputra Perkim has been donating wheelchairs to low-income families for the past 18 years in collaboration with international charity Latter-Day Saints (LDS). The organization works with local hospitals and welfare organizations to identify eligible recipients. Many families cannot afford wheelchairs, which can cost between RM350 and RM500.
Tasputra recently conducted a two-day workshop to train its staff, including caregivers, therapists, and volunteers, on how to assemble wheelchairs. The workshop was conducted with the guidance of LDS representatives. Custom assembly of wheelchairs according to the recipients’ needs is essential to ensure their comfort.
Majority of the recipients are stroke and polio patients, individuals with cerebral palsy, amputees, and senior citizens. Tasputra also provides special wheelchairs for children. The consultant physiotherapist, Serenade Sarang, encourages the recipients’ next-of-kin to return the wheelchairs once they are no longer needed. These returned wheelchairs will be refurbished before being given to the next patient.
Tasputra Perkim has been operating as a daycare center for children with special needs for over 30 years. It currently takes care of 20 children and teenagers below the age of 20, some of whom have autism and cerebral palsy. The center also organizes regular therapy sessions to help these children cope at school. The organization is currently seeking volunteers.
For more information on obtaining wheelchairs or volunteering, you can contact Tasputra Perkim at 03-4251 6100 or 011-2102 5515.
Credit: The Star : Metro Feed
